🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Fiat

Model:

Coupé

Year:

1994

Internal Model Code:

Tipo-based platform

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact sports coupe

Design Philosophy:

Unique and distinctive Italian styling, performance-oriented packaging, affordable sports car alternative.

Key Competitors:

Ford Probe, Toyota Celica, Honda Prelude, Mitsubishi Eclipse, Nissan 240SX, Mazda MX-6

Design Highlight:

Striking, angular design penned by Pininfarina, characterized by its distinctive 'blade' across the dashboard.

Platform Sharing:

Shared platform and many mechanical components with the Fiat Tipo hatchback.

📋 Manual Details

Regions Covered:

Global (primarily European market focus)

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English (likely original language, may have translations available)

Format:

Digital (ZIP archive containing PDF documents)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanicals (cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts), Fuel system (injection, pump, injectors, lines), Ignition system (coils, plugs, ECU), Cooling system (radiator, pump, thermostat, fans), Lubrication system (oil pump, filter, passages), Exhaust system (catalytic converter, mufflers), Emission control systems

Transmission Systems:

Manual transmission (clutch, gearbox, driveshafts, linkages), Automatic transmission (torque converter, planetary gears, valve body, cooling - if applicable)

Chassis Systems:

Suspension (front struts, rear beam axle/independent suspension, bushings, springs, dampers), Steering (rack and pinion, power steering pump, column), Brakes (front/rear discs, calipers, master cylinder, ABS, brake lines), Wheels and Tires

Electrical Systems:

Wiring diagrams, Battery, Alternator, Starter motor, Lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), Fuses and relays, Instrument cluster, ECU (Engine Control Unit) and sensors, Power windows, Central locking, Audio system, HVAC controls

Body And Interior Systems:

Body panels (doors, hood, trunk, fenders), Bumpers, Glass and seals, Interior trim, Seats, Airbags (if equipped), HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system components

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil changes, Filter replacements (oil, air, fuel, cabin), Spark plug replacement, Coolant flushes, Brake fluid changes, Transmission fluid changes, Belt inspections and replacement (timing belt, accessory belts), Battery maintenance

Repair Procedures:

Engine component replacement (pistons, rods, bearings, valves), Cylinder head removal and installation, Fuel injector replacement, Water pump replacement, Radiator replacement, Clutch replacement, Brake pad and rotor replacement, Suspension component replacement (shocks, struts, control arms), Power steering pump replacement, Alternator and starter motor replacement, Body panel repair and replacement

Troubleshooting Diagnostics:

Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, Symptom-based troubleshooting guides, Electrical system diagnostics, Fuel system diagnostics, Engine performance diagnostics

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, detailed electrical schematics, and bodywork repair procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format Details:

ZIP archive containing multiple PDF files. PDFs are typically searchable and can be printed.

Print Quality Expectation:

High-resolution scans suitable for professional printing or on-screen viewing. Diagrams and illustrations are generally clear.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 1994:

836A3 (1.8L 16V)

Engine Type 1994:

Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16 valves

Displacement 1994:

1774 cc

Horsepower 1994:

130 hp (96 kW) @ 6300 rpm

Torque 1994:

160 Nm (118 lb-ft) @ 4500 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (95 RON recommended)

Engine Code 20V Turbo:

182A1.000 (2.0L Turbocharged)

Displacement 20V Turbo:

1995 cc

Horsepower 20V Turbo:

190 hp (140 kW) @ 5500 rpm

Torque 20V Turbo:

290 Nm (214 lb-ft) @ 2500 rpm

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type:

5-speed manual

Optional Transmission Type:

4-speed automatic (less common, typically on non-turbo models)

Clutch Type:

Hydraulic actuated, single dry plate

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4250 mm (167.3 in)

Width:

1760 mm (69.3 in)

Height:

1350 mm (53.1 in)

Wheelbase:

2500 mm (98.4 in)

Curb Weight 1.8:

Approx. 1260 kg (2778 lbs)

Curb Weight 2.0 Turbo:

Approx. 1350 kg (2976 lbs)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

Limited specific official Euro NCAP or NHTSA data for this specific model year; often relied on general safety standards of the era.

ABS:

Available (standard on some higher trims/turbo models, optional on others)

Traction Control:

Limited availability on 1994 models, more common on later 'Plus' or turbo variants.

Airbags:

Driver's side airbag standard. Passenger airbag optional or standard on higher trims.

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia-reel seatbelts front and rear

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory fitted cassette/radio with 4-6 speakers. CD player optional or an aftermarket upgrade.

Cruise Control:

Available as an option on some models, particularly higher trims.

Early Features:

Limited connectivity features by modern standards; primarily focused on vehicle mechanics and driver comfort controls.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first.

Timing Belt Replacement:

Every 60,000 km (36,000 miles) or 4 years. Crucial due to interference engine design.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000 km (18,000 miles) or 2 years.

Coolant Replacement:

Every 2 years or 40,000 km (24,000 miles).

Engine Oil Specification:

SAE 10W-40 API SJ or similar (check specific manual for exact rating).

Coolant Specification:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (50/50 mix with distilled water).

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 4

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or SAE 80W-90

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron III or equivalent

Common Electrical Problems:

Wiring harness degradation, sensor failures (e.g., TPS, MAP), intermittent issues with central locking and power windows.

Common Engine Problems:

Timing belt failure (if not replaced on schedule), oil leaks from gaskets, occasional ECU issues.

Common Suspension Issues:

Worn bushings, premature strut/shock absorber wear, especially on higher mileage vehicles.

Common Body Issues:

Rust formation (particularly in wheel arches, sills, and around rear window), degradation of plastic body trim.

Timing Belt Kit Part Number Example:

Gates T187 (verify for specific engine variant)

Oil Filter Part Number Example:

Mahle OC232 or Mann-Filter W712/23 (verify for specific engine variant)

📚 Vehicle History

Fiat Sports Car Legacy:

Fiat has a long history of producing popular and stylish sports cars, including the 850 Sport Spider, X1/9, and Dino.

Introduction Year:

1993

Design Evolution:

Penned by Ercole Spada of I.DE.A. Institute and further developed by Pininfarina. First shown as a concept in 1990.

Production Years:

1993-2001

Manufacturing Location:

Turin, Italy

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Design Awards:

While not a recipient of specific 'Car of the Year' awards, its distinctive Pininfarina design was highly praised and contributed to its cult status.

Reliability Perception:

Mixed. Early models had some electrical gremlins and rust issues, but well-maintained examples can be quite robust. Timing belt maintenance is critical for longevity.